Why Your Vehicle Needs Attention

Winter is hard on your car — even if it doesn’t look it. Road salt, grit, traffic film and constant moisture build up for months, slowly dulling paintwork and starting damage beneath the surface.

A proper post‑winter clean isn’t about making your car shiny — it’s about removing hidden contaminants, preventing corrosion, and protecting your paint for the year ahead.

At SJ Valet, we see the same winter-related issues every season. Here’s what affects your paint, why a deep clean matters, and how regular maintenance keeps your car looking its best.

🚗 Book a Post‑Winter Car Valet in Ashford, Kent

If your car has been through winter and needs a proper clean, protection, or maintenance plan, we can help.

➡️ Message SJ Valet to discuss your requirements and receive a detailed quote

What Winter Does to Your Car Paintwork (Salt, Grit & Traffic Film Damage)

Over the colder months, your car is exposed to:

• Road salt & de‑icing chemicals – Highly corrosive and the biggest culprit behind dull paint and rust
• Grit and sand – Thrown up by traffic and dragged across paint during poor washing
• Traffic film – A stubborn mix of oil, dirt and pollutants that bonds to paint
• Constant moisture – Encourages oxidation and corrosion

Left untreated, these contaminants degrade clear coat, reduce gloss and create micro‑scratches that turn into visible swirl marks.

Paint Swirls: Before & After

Winter washing often means quick rinses or automated car washes — both common causes of swirl marks.

Properly Decontaminated & Refreshed

Glossy car paint with no visible swirls – after professional clean

Correct washing, decontamination and protection restore clarity and depth.

A deep post‑winter clean removes bonded contaminants safely and prepares the paint for protection.

Why a Deep Clean After Winter Is Essential

A proper deep clean goes far beyond a basic wash:

• Removes salt and embedded grime that regular washing can’t
• Prevents long‑term corrosion and paint failure
• Restores gloss and colour clarity
• Creates a clean base for waxes or sealants to bond properly

Skipping this stage means you’re sealing contaminants into your paint rather than protecting it.

Why Regular Maintenance Washes Matter After Winter

Once your vehicle has been deep‑cleaned, maintenance washes are key.

Regular, safe washing:

• Prevents dirt build‑up that causes scratching
• Maintains gloss and protection layers
• Extends the life of your paint and trim
• Keeps your car looking consistently clean, not just occasionally shiny

Think of it as preserving the work already done — not starting from scratch every time.

Don’t Forget the Undercarriage

The underside of your vehicle takes the worst winter punishment.

Why Undercarriage Cleaning Matters:

• Salt builds up around suspension, exhausts and brake lines
• Corrosion often starts out of sight
• Long‑term damage can affect safety and resale value

A proper undercarriage rinse removes harmful residue and slows rust formation — especially important after winter driving on treated roads.

Real Cars, Real Results

We work on everyday vehicles — not just showroom cars.

Careful techniques, premium products and attention to detail make the difference — regardless of vehicle type.

The Ease of a Mobile Valet

With SJ Valet, there’s no need to travel or wait around.

We:

• Come directly to your home or workplace
• Use premium, paint‑safe products and professional methods
• Bring all equipment required
• Return your vehicle clean, protected and looking as close to new as possible

Convenient, professional and tailored to your vehicle’s condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a post‑winter deep clean take?
This depends on vehicle size and condition, but most deep exterior cleans take between 2–4 hours.

Do I need paint correction?
Not always. Many vehicles benefit greatly from safe decontamination and protection alone. We’ll advise honestly based on inspection.

How often should I have maintenance washes?
Typically every 2–4 weeks to keep your paint and protection in good condition.

Do you bring your own water and power?
Currently we arrive with electric but require water, on-board water tank to follow.

Maintenance Plans Available

After your deep clean, we can set up a simple maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle looking its best year‑round.

Benefits include: – Consistently clean appearance – Reduced risk of swirl marks – Longer‑lasting protection – Lower long‑term detailing costs

Ask us about maintenance options when booking.

You can also learn more about our services here: – Full Valeting Services – Insert – Exterior Deep Clean

Book Your Clean

📞 Phone: 07708 794903

💬 WhatsApp / Messenger: [Insert Link]

📩 Or message us directly on Facebook

Let’s Get Your Car Spring‑Ready

Every car — and every winter — is different.

If you’d like to restore your paintwork, protect it properly, or set up a maintenance plan, talk to us at SJ Valet. We’ll discuss your requirements and provide a detailed, no‑pressure quote that suits your vehicle and usage.

📍 Based in Ashford, Kent — mobile service available

Your car has done the hard work through winter. Let’s give it the care it deserves.